ENCHANTING EL ENCANTO
Prepare to be swept away by the magic that is El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, as you step into its enchanting world of luxury and charm. With its fairytale-like setting, El Encanto captivates guests with its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, lush gardens, and twinkling lights that dance among the trees. There isn’t a bad angle on the entire property, whose meandering pathways encourage guests to explore its quaint layout. From the subtly decadent accommodations and divine food and drinks to its otherworldly spa and unrivaled hospitality, you’ll never want to leave the grounds.
Imagine waking up to the melodious tunes of birdsong as you peer out from your cozy, elegantly appointed room. As you make your way through the winding paths, you’ll stumble upon hidden nooks and seven acres of gardens—seek out the centuries-old lily pond, a wishing well that is older than the building itself, and the chef’s garden. Cuddle up next to one of the fibonfires, some of which are lit inside artfully repurposed buoys surrounded by Adirondack chairs. Rain or shine, the grounds beg you to take them in.
From the moment you arrive at this hillside perch, all yourrom your needs are anticipated, and you get the sense that everyone there is eager to make this particular stay the most exceptional visit you’ve ever experienced. Yet the property has served a few other purposes over the years. Originally, it was a normal school for girls. Later, it became housing for the professors and faculty at the University of Santa Barbara, which used to be located just across the street. Today, the revered hotel—hailed as one of California’s greatest—includes 92 suites, bungalows, and rooms.
On New Year’s Eve 1918, El Encanto opened its doors and became the original Hollywood getaway, hosting the most illustrious names on the silver screen. Currently, it stands as one of the most celebrated resorts on the West Coast after being lovingly restored to its 1920s glory. All of the buildings that comprise El Encanto don the original Spanish-colonial and Californian craftsman styles of architecture with seamlessly integrated modern additions, such as a zero-edge outdoor pool and boutique spa.
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, The Spa at El Encanto offers a haven of tranquility. Let the skilled hands of expert therapists transport you to a world of serenity and bliss as soothing melodies float through the air. Spa treatments are available by appointment only; however, The Fitness Studio is open around the clock. The Spa Reception and Boutique are open daily, allowing spa-goers the opportunity to purchase the carefully selected and exclusive products available on-site.
The Spa uses skincare products from A-list facialist Linda Ross, whose exclusive residency at El Encanto ensures celluloid-worth skin even after leaving this serene sanctuary. Having built her Beverly Hills-based clientele for almost 30 years by referral only, her skincare products are exclusively available for the public to experience and purchase through the elite spas she partners with. “This provides the spas using my products a unique experience to their guests and separates them from other hotels in the area,” says Linda Ross.
The most recent addition of Linda Ross Beverly Hills offerings at El Encanto is the newly launched Illustrious Escape Beauty Journey (IEBJ). Linda noticed a trend in luxury hotel spas shifting to longer treatments performed in a variety of steps; however, she wanted to create something that wouldn’t limit clients immediately thereafter. “My skincare philosophy is based on working synergistically with the skin, eliminating recovery down time while providing immediate, stellar results. This allows hotel guests the ability to enjoy all of the experiences offered [at El Encanto] without any photo sensitivity issues,” she reveals of the 2-hour treatment, which is the only one she will come to perform personally for clients through her residency.
TThe IEBJ begins by the client lying atop an he infrared-heated gemstone Chakra Mat on the reclining bed where the treatment is performed. This treatment aids mental clarity, relieves tension, and stimulates relaxation. The Linda Ross microderm scrub reveals fresh new epidermis layers in preparation for better product absorption. Custom-blended therapeutic-grade certified-organic essential oils are then applied with steam. In addition, an LED Red Light Therapy and MicroCurrent Glove treatment really sets this experience apart, as Linda’s specialized anti-aging privy solutions combined with colloidal silver stimulate facial muscles, deliver lift, increase collagen production, minimize fine lines, and magnify the depth of eminent glowing skin.
An application of microderm scrub on the feet removes dull skin before a tranquil foot massage. “Many facial treatments today forget about the hands and feet. I wanted to give them nurturing attention using collagen mitts/gloves, followed with the application of my Epidermal Growth Factor Body Lotion containing many certified-organic therapeutic-grade essential oils.” The Illustrious Escape Beauty Journey concludes with an extensive face, neck, and shoulder massage, imbedding more age-defying properties into the epidermis, leaving the skin beaming and spirits awakened. “The results from IEBJ should last many days. Using my 4-Steps homecare program also helps maintain the results achieved,” all of which are used in this treatment.
The IEBJ is Linda’s second body-focused treatment. “Of the signature indulgences offered on the El Encanto hotel spa menu, the body regeneration treatment is the first treatment I designed for the body,” Linda explains. “It was important this treatment stand out by the results achieved, have an effect on all of our senses, and make you feel great! … I’m proud to share this treatment is a top-selling service at the El Encanto hotel and am thankful to have the support from the General Manager Janis Clapoff, Spa Director Rebecca Ruiz, and the therapists. Creating a new treatment takes a lot of people to execute and make it successful. El Encanto has a wonderful team supporting me and it’s a blessing.”
Much of the extraordinary experience cultivated at El Encanto can be attributed to the people who work there. General Manager Janis Clapoff is known for her handwritten notes and the lovely in-room gifts she leaves for guests—thoughtful is an understatement. Brand Marketing & Communications Manager Hima Duggirala does so much more than marketing, making sure even the minute details of one’s stay are seamlessly pressed out; she makes you feel like she is there just for you. They work tirelessly to ensure every visit to the hotel is memorable and seek out only the best products and people to constantly improve upon perfection and better enhance the El Encanto experience.
Wellness Week at El Encanto provides patrons the ellness opportunity to participate in exclusive experiences, such as Linda’s, many of which can be personally tailored. The “Rooted in Nature” Wellness Week in collaboration with PALMA Colectiva—who also showcased the practitioners—took place from June 5th to 8th with a curated selection of garden-inspired wellness experiences that invited guests to revitalize themselves within the serene setting of El Encanto’s lily pond. Furthermore, wellness-geared, plant-based menus were available for both lunch and dinner at the Spa Garden, and each day, a unique wellness event was scheduled. Coupled with El Encanto’s inviting atmosphere, the spirit of well-being and tranquility is utterly undeniable all around the grounds during this week especially.
This summer’s line-up included Breathwork and Sound Alchemy with Lara Elliott and Dorothea Barth, Grounding Kundalini with Siddhi Ma, Rose Plant Spirit Immersion with Evan Rilling and Mar Harrsen as well as a complimentary Open House at The Spa. For an ultra-personalized experience, scheduling a Live Mandala Reading with renowned healing expert Renate Hume is an encounter you’ll never forget. Renate’s calming aura and skilled insight allows one to look back while dreaming forward, using the art of Mandala to help guide the journey of understanding oneself. You won’t want to miss the next Wellness Week at El Encanto, scheduled to be held between the 25th and 28th of September.
No matter where you are on the hotel grounds, tea is thoughtfully present. “Botanica is a new in-house branding theme for El Encanto’s tea journey, including the Afternoon Tea, Arrival Welcome Tea, in-room amenities, in-room dining, fitness tea, and spa tea,” shares Hima Duggirala. These tea blends are all meticulously crafted by Zhena Muzyka, the tea lady behind Magic Hour based in nearby Ojai. Upon check-in, the Queen of Enchantment tea greets guests. In The Spa, a beautifully displayed decanter is at the ready with visually striking Gemstone Teas, which are provided to enjoy after each treatment.
Yet the ultimate brewed experience is El Encanto’s Botanica Afternoon Tea. “As for the design of the teas,” Hima elaborates, “we purchased the entire Astrology line of teas (as is), her bottles, and her labels from Zhena. We then rebranded the Afternoon Tea and the Tea Journies as ‘Botanica’ to be specific to Santa Barbara and El Encanto’s gardens, and each tea journey helps celebrate the power of connection and invites you to experience this modern ritual, steeped in discovery and enchantment.” Served in the dining room from Monday to Thursday, Botanica Afternoon Tea is perfect for milestone moments and casual afternoons alike.
There are four parts to this afternoon tea service. It begins with teas featuring Astrobotanical Infusions, which are custom-blended teas, herbs, and adaptogens designed with your zodiac’s sun sign in mind. Up next are Savory Delights, an array of colorful and equally tasty tea sandwiches, each unique because the breads used feature colorful ingredients such as beetroot, turmeric, and charcoal. Seasonal Scones in Buttermilk, Fresh Rosemary, and Lemon Zest varieties are served warm with strawberry basil jam, clotted cream, and butter with local honey. Additionally, five types of Divine Desserts come in bite-size form.
Another uber special dining experience at El Encanto is the Bellini Brunch, served Sundays on the Terrance. Bottomless Bellinis or mimosas featuring Moët Chandon with unrivaled views of the Santa Barbara coastline and live jazz take center stage. Freshly pressed juices have the option to add CBD. A Sunrise Bakery Basket comprised of ciabatta, caramelized onion focaccia, jalapeño bacon scone, and cheese stick, for example, is presented with butter, salt, and paprika. More to be shared is an assortment of starters such as smoked salmon, mini versions of the infamous bagels from Jack’s Bistro, cream cheese, tiger shrimp cocktail, avocado, heirloom cherry tomatoes, and berries. Whichever succulent Plate and Sweet Treat option you select for the main course and following dessert, you surely won’t be disappointed.
Dining at El Encanto transcends mere sustenance. Indulge ining your senses with the tantalizing scents and flavors that waft from the resort’s delightful restaurant under the direction of Executive Chef Conny Andersson. A passion for artisanal ingredient and exceptional flavors reflects the region’s culinary abundance. Moreover, every dining location has an ocean view. The ambient Dining Room and alfresco Terrace ensure the perfect setting for any meal of the day. The Rivera Lounge, Bar, and Patio are the ideal retreat for a drink, gourmet snack, and light bite. Even in-room dining is outstanding and exquisitely presented.
El Encanto promises a whimsical escape like no other. Every team member makes sure even the smallest request is tended to with extraordinary care and attention to detail. They have thought of everything you may need in your hillside home away from home. If you’d prefer a different pillow than what’s already piled high on your bed, the Pillow Menu will ensure the soundest of sleep. Furthermore, each room comes equipped with complementary beverages to start and end your day, not to mention a handful of snacks at the ready, just in case you don’t want to leave. Besides, electric bikes are at the ready for when the mood to venture out takes hold. And when you must finally depart this fairytale, bottled water and house-made granola await you in your car’s console. You just know you must return soon; El Encanto will surely put a spell on anyone who steps foot on its enchanted grounds.
Photographer Ellie Koleen
Ellie Koleen
Photographer
Ellie is a lifestyle, wedding, and brand photographer based in Fresno, California. An artist behind the lens, her trademark airy, light-filled style and masterful camera angles make her work easily recognizable. She uses her love for all things design related as inspiration for her work. The Fresno Bee named Ellie Best Photographer for the People’s Choice Awards in 2018 and 2019.
